Preventing falls at home among people with intellectual disabilities: A scoping review

Abstract

Background Falls are common among people with intellectual disabilities. Many falls happen within the home. Our scoping review aimed to identify evidence for falls‐risk factors and falls‐prevention interventions for this population. Method We conducted a multi‐database search to identify any type of published study that explored falls‐risk factors or falls‐prevention interventions for people with intellectual disabilities. Following a process of (i) title & abstract and (ii) full‐text screening, data was extracted from the included studies and described narratively. Results Forty‐one studies were included. Risks are multifactorial. There was limited evidence of medical, behavioural/psychological, or environmental interventions to address modifiable risk factors, and no evidence of the interventions' cost‐effectiveness. Conclusions Clinically and cost effective, acceptable and accessible falls‐prevention pathways should be available for people with intellectual disabilities who are at risk of falls from an earlier age than the general population.

What are the views of adults with an intellectual disability (AWID), carers and healthcare professionals on a community falls management programme for AWID: a qualitative interview study in the UK

“…Environmental factors relating to falls risks were highlighted as important to consider within the programme and a recent scoping review of risk factors for falls for AWID reported falls were most likely within the home environment and often in bathrooms, toilets and bedrooms. 17 Concerns were, however, expressed by some AWID about navigating obstacles in new environments and this could potentially lead to a reduced confidence in going out. The implications of not going out could include social isolation as well as reduced independence, mobility and the ability to carry out daily tasks.…”